noun Uncommon

ripper

RIH-puh

Ripper (noun) means a person or tool that rips or tears something apart. Example: “The name "Jack the Ripper" refers to an infamous unidentified killer.”

noun

A person or tool that rips or tears something apart.

"The name "Jack the Ripper" refers to an infamous unidentified killer."

(Australian/British informal) Something excellent or outstanding.

"That last goal was an absolute ripper!"

How to use ripper

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomething or someone that tears things apart, or (informal, especially Australian) something excellent.

When to use it

The "excellent" meaning is informal slang, common in Australian and British English.

Word forms

rippers plural, rippers plural, Rippers plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “ripper” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The name "Jack the _____" refers to an infamous unidentified killer.

Etymology

From "rip" plus the agent suffix "-er."

Rhymes for ripper

zipper nipper tipper kipper dipper flipper skipper slipper chipper clipper stripper

See all rhymes for ripper →

Frequently asked questions

What does “ripper” mean?

The word “ripper” means a person or tool that rips or tears something apart. In plain terms, something or someone that tears things apart, or (informal, especially Australian) something excellent.

How do you pronounce “ripper”?

“Ripper” is pronounced RIH-puh (/ˈɹɪpɚ/ in IPA).

How do you use “ripper” in a sentence?

Here is “ripper” used in a sentence: “The name "Jack the Ripper" refers to an infamous unidentified killer.”

What part of speech is “ripper”?

“Ripper” is a noun.

Is “ripper” a common word?

“Ripper” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “ripper” have?

“Ripper” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person or tool that rips or tears something apart.